BIF has particularly noted Recommendation 4.1(b), in which TRAI has stated that the Central Government should reconsider the introduction of satellite-based telecommunication service authorisation under the Telecommunications (Authorisation for Provision of Principal Telecommunication Services) Rules, 2026.
This is consistent with BIF's written Submissions made at the time of submission of comments and counter-comments. BIF had highlighted that the First Schedule of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 recognises GMPCS, VSAT, Teleports, DTH and Mobile Satellite Services as distinct services, and that the absence of a dedicated satellite service authorisation leaves uncertainty over the natural assignee of administratively assigned satellite spectrum under Entry 16. BIF had emphasised that a standalone service authorisation would give the sector a clear, legally sound pathway, while complementing the network authorisation now recommended by TRAI.
BIF also welcomes several other features of the Recommendations which includes the roadmap for D2D services using both MSS & IMT spectrum, administrative assignment of satellite spectrum, etc.
Mr. T.V. Ramachandran, President, Broadband India Forum, said, “We congratulate TRAI on these considered recommendations and we believe if accepted, these would help satellite broadband reach unserved and underserved India faster and at a cost to consumers. We are confident the Government will give this recommendation early and careful consideration, and BIF stands ready to support the Department of Telecommunications in every way.”
